Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, is most often known affectionately as the GBGV. Understandably so as the full name is a bit of a mouthful! It is a medium-sized, basset scent hound breed, with a vivacious and capable nature. Physically, it has a rugged frame, designed specifically by breeders with the aim of producing an exceptional hunter.  Features like its long body and hardy coat, were specifically developed to navigate challenging terrains. While they are great at this task, they can also be quite amiable and affectionate companions. 

With their shaggy coats and soulful eyes, GBGVs are as charming in appearance as they are in personality. They thrive with play and mental tasks and typically have an excellent temperament around both people and other animals.

Despite their impressive work credentials, GBGVs are relatively rare outside of their native France and hunting circles. The are however recognized as members of the hound group of dogs by kennel clubs from around the world, including:

• The French Kennel Club – Société Centrale Canine (SCC)
• The International Federation of Kennel Clubs – Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
• The American Kennel Club (AKC)
• The Kennel Club (KC)

Discover more about the origins, traits, and daily life of the GBGV below.

History Of The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, is a French scent hound with roots dating back around 400 years. It is one of several breeds that derived from the Grand Griffon, designed specifically to conform to a certain size with traits superior in hunting hare. Originating in the Vendée region of France, this breed was developed to hunt game such as rabbits and hares over the dense and thorny terrain, requiring dogs that could be followed on foot. 

​By the early 20th century, the GBGV had become popular among French hunters for its stamina and ability to handle rugged landscapes. To this day, the breed is a popular choice in hunting circles, though mostly in it’s native France. It performs very well in competitive hare hunting, but is also used in the hunt of other animals including the much larger wild boar.

The GBGV was officially recognized as a distinct breed in the mid-20th century, having previously been grouped with the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen. It wasn’t until 2018 however, that it became recognized by the AKC.

Breed Origin

It was in the 19th century that the first GBGV dogs were developed. But sorting the breed to the desired standard took some time. It was breeder Paul Dézamy toward the end of the 1800’s that is attributed with tailoring the breed to the set size we know today. 

The breed is derived from the Grand Griffon, which along with other Vendéen Griffons, was bred from the earlier Greffier as far back as the 16th Century. 

The GBGV is one of six recognised breeds of basset scent hound, which also includes the Basset Fauve de Bretagne and the French Basset Artésien Normand. Interestingly, the only basset scent hound not native to France, is the Basset Hound, which is an English breed.

Quick Facts

• Sturdy and Tenacious – The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen has a sturdy build, designed for stamina and durability in rugged terrains. It is well-equipped for long days of hunting, so it should come as no surprise that it does very well in this role competitively. 

• Independent but Sociable – Despite its prowess in hunting the GBGV is also renowned for its friendly and outgoing nature. It also carries a strong sense of independence. This unique combination makes them a very versatile breed, tenacious in their hunting role, but also personable and sociable companions in domestic settings. The self-reliant streak is characteristic of all scent hounds but that doesn’t mean they don’t like the company of their pack.

• Active and Energetic – The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen does make an excellent house dog, but they do require plenty of daily activity to stay healthy and content. They are happiest when taking part in activities like long walks, hikes, or play sessions in a secure yard. Exercise is core to their happiness and wellbeing. Unlike some breeds, particularly sighthounds that are quite happy to be a couch potato, the GBGV would not be happy in a low activity home.

• Determined Pack Animals – As traditional hunting dogs, they generally display strong pack instincts and social tendencies. They love to chase, and even the best of training will not rid them of this quality. That instinct will stay with them throughout their life, and they will be lively well into old age. Their sociable nature makes them excellent family members, provided they are given adequate social and physical outlets.

Characteristics Of The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, often goes by the abbreviated nickname of GBGV. It’s also sometimes referred to simply as the Basset Griffon. While it shares some physical and behavioral traits with its smaller cousin, the Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, it does have its differences and its own specific needs and characteristics.

GBGV puppies are typically born in litters ranging from six to eight. and at about eight to ten weeks old, they are usually ready to be picked up from their breeder. They shouldn’t be taken from their pack before this, to allow them to pick up early  essential social skills from their mother and siblings. It also give the breeder time to check their health and development. 

Those looking to welcome a GBGV into their homes should expect to pay a reputable breeder in the region of $200 to $500 in the United States. In the UK the floor is around £500 but they often go for well over £800 depending on the reputation of the breeder and demand.

This price can be higher for puppies with pedigrees from distinguished hunting lines or show-quality stock.

Appearance

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen (GBGV) has a distinct, rugged appearance, characterized by a sturdy and elongated body, longer than it is tall, which aids in maneuvering through challenging terrains. These features make it a well-adapted breed for hunting in dense underbrush. They are of a medium size, standing between 15 to 18 inches tall and typically weighing between 40 to 50 pounds. Males are usually the larger of the two sexes. 

The breed’s head features a domed skull, large, soulful eyes (I’m sure I say this about most adorable breeds), and notably long, pendulous ears that are typical of the basset hound types. It’s a very charming breed to the eye, attractive and capable.

Coat

With a medium-long, wiry double coat, the GBGV has ample protection against harsh underbrush typical in it’s hunting grounds. The hair should be flat rather than woolly, and the undercoat is also pretty thick. Though hardy, it is a really easy coat to maintain, but it does shed a reasonable amount. 

Color

There are nine standard coat colors as described by the American Kennel Club. These are:

• White & Black
• White & Gray 
• White & Grizzle
• White & Lemon
• White & Orange
• White & Sable
• White Black & Tan
• Black & Tan
• Fawn

There are no recognised markings outwith these standard colors.

The UK Kennel Club (KC) describes the accepted standard colors differently as ‘White, with any combination of lemon, orange, sable, grizzle or black markings. Tricolour’. More or less the same standards, just different wording.

Temperament

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is known for its cheerful and outgoing nature, balanced with plenty energy and an assured confidence. They are characteristically happy when well looked after, and willing to please which helps with training. With an affectionate and sociable nature they can making excellent family pets. Though its important for any potential owner to understand that they do retain a high prey drive and independent streak from their hunting origins.

Lifespan

In comparison to other breeds of a similar size, the GBGV has an above average life expectancy. it is also considerably long lived when compared to the average and the norm across all pure breed dogs. In one UK study commissioned by the Kennel Club, the average was around 12 years, and the maximum was over 17. The AKC put the average between 13-15 years and this is a reasonable ball park to expect. Not only do they live long, but more often than not they remain very active and capable throughout. 

Known Health Issues

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is generally a healthy, long lived breed. But like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Potential health issues with this breed include:

Cancer – Like many breeds, the GBGV can be prone to various forms of cancer. Regular check-ups with a vet should pick up any early signs, and offer the opportunity for effective treatment.

• Treatment: Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of cancer but may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Cardiac Issues – Heart conditions can occur in this breed, including valve diseases or arrhythmias.

• Treatment: Management of heart conditions may involve medications to control the heart rate and function, along with regular monitoring by a professional.

Reproductive Issues – GBGVs may face various reproductive issues such as dystocia or hormonal imbalances.

• Treatment: Treatment can range from hormonal therapies to surgical interventions, depending on the specific condition and severity.

Dermatologic Issues – Dermatitis and mites can affect the GBGV, often leading to skin irritation and infections.

• Treatment: Dermatologic issues are typically treated with topical ointments or creams, medicated shampoos, and in some cases, oral medications to control infection and inflammation.

Aural Issues – Given their floppy ears, the GBGV is particularly susceptible to ear infections, which can be caused by bacteria, yeast, or mites.

• Treatment: Regular cleaning and maintenance of the ears are recommended. In the case of infections, treatment may include medicated ear drops and, occasionally, oral antibiotics.

Daily Life

Now we know a bit about the breeds characteristics, what is the daily routine and life with a Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen? Let’s explore.

Food and Diet

Many of the best dog food companies provide formulas that are tailored to a dogs specific size or age. For the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, you will need a high-quality food formulated for medium-sized, active breeds. Typically, an adult GBGV will need about 1.5 to 2.5 cups of dry dog food per day, divided into two meals. Pups will need more meals throughout the day, and a formula suitable for that stage of life. 

Similarly as your dogs age they will need a different formulation again, and one that takes into account their changing metabolism and nutritional requirements to avoid obesity.

Exercise

As an energetic breed, the GBGV needs plenty of daily exercise. With a high prey drive though, you really need to have a secure yard for them to get all the play they need. Long walks and hikes are great with these dogs, but they do have high needs, and on days where a long walk is not possible, the fenced yard is essential. Their stamina and curiosity make them ideal companions for active families but they will never do well if expected to lounge on the couch all day.

Family Compatability

The GBGV is very family-oriented, loves plenty of play and interaction and being part of daily activities. They are good with children and can get along with other pets if socialized properly. They are not afraid to show their affection and don’t shy away from cuddles and this includes with anyone outside of the family that they don’t consider to be ‘edgy’. So friends and visitors can expect to be greeted with enthusiasm and joy too. They do generally like to bark fair amount, so this might be a consideration for households with infants that need lots of sleep through the day.

Being very social dogs, they don’t do well when left alone for long periods of time, or when left in confined spaces. If left like this, they are likely to be very vocal and will look for an exit, scratching and other destructive behaviours. They need a home that can provide space and companionship and if you can give this, they will give you plenty of love and charm in return.

Training

As a hunting breed, training can be demanding but also very necessary. Their stubborn and independent nature can be problematic without training, and they need a firm but positive hand to bring out the best in them. Patience and consistency is key to training, and they respond very well to positive reinforcement. Plenty of challenges for mind and body, with praise and reward when they do well, will keep them interested and encouraged. 

It’s important to know though, that even with the best training, they will not lose their prey drive. It is a core instinct in the breed so there is no point in getting frustrated with them when the drive kicks in. They will respond to firm command, but the drive will always be there. It takes a willing and experienced owner to bring the best out of them, and I would say that a novice owner should look to start with an easier breed, or gather some training experience first, perhaps by helping out at a shelter.

Socializing

Socialization should be a central part of their wider training, and the earlier it starts the better. While the prey drive will remain strong, they are intelligent dogs, and they will soon learn who is family, friend or foe when introduced to different environments, people and sounds. It is really important to introduce them early to any other pets you may have too, so that any prey instinct can adapt to play instinct with their animal family pack. 

A well rounded GBGV will be very sociable, approachable and happy. They are capable of getting on with all your family, friends and other dogs when raised well.

Grooming

Their thick, wiry double coat should only need weekly brushing and occasional baths to keep them clean and reduce shedding. They do shed a fair amount of hair, but the coat is generally very east to care for. The GBGV is another breed that has pretty quick growing nails though, so you need to keep an eye on these and clip when necessary to avoid them getting uncomfortably long. A regular check of the ears is also important to prevent infections, a common issue with this breed.

Breed Traits

Breed FAQs

Summary

The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a strong, hearty and spirited breed. It embodies the essence of a traditional French hunting dog, and was designed for this very purpose. But it balances this with the adaptability of a charming yet vocal family companion. They are very adaptable and sociable bit will always maintain a strong prey drive. You may never meet a more capable hound dog in the right hands and  home, but they do need an experienced hand to bring the best to your home.